Well, readers, I think it’s time that I share…I took note of many of my fellow bloggers and am on my own personal 30 day no shopping challenge. Like most things you are unsure of, I kept this one to myself, figuring I wouldn’t make it. But, I’m 14 days in and I’m pretty sure I might make it (maybe). As a result of my no shopping challenge, I’m all about rotating some of my favorite pieces this month. So, my beloved Marimekko dress is making another appearance. This time, however, I styled it for work. 30 days? I’ve got this. …(right?). Either way, I’m still merry in Marimekko.
Dress: Marimekko for Banana Republic ($100 marked down from $130, used a coupon)
Shrug: Nordstrom Rack (years ago, maybe $10?)
Belt: Urban Outfitters ($5 marked down from approx $60)
Shoes: Nine West via resale ($2, retail for approx $100)
Short necklace: Fab ($28)
Long necklace: gift
Fashion Huntress tips:
1) I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again: maxi dresses can be tough to style for work. You don’t want to look too informal, and you don’t want to look overly formal either. For this look, I added a shrug, formal/informal heels, and a belt. I originally had on a statement necklace and it was just too much. So, I kept it simple with more understated jewelry. The key is balancing an informal and formal style to keep it looking like you didn’t come from a beach or a wedding.
Here’s how I wore it last on a weekend:
2) Belts can go a long way in giving an outfit a new feel. I really don’t have many belts, but I do rotate them quite a bit. I find a lot of belts on clearance at Ann Taylor Loft and Urban Outfitters. You want to make sure your belts are high quality, or they will be useless when the elastic wears out or the straps break. I look for thick elastic or leather that is genuine leather.
Anyone else have maxi dress styling tips? Places to find belts? Thanks so much for stopping by, readers! I hope everyone had a great weekend!
the fashion huntress 
I love the print of your dress!
Beautiful dress, and I love the belt!
Good luck on the challenge. I did the same challenge and failed miserably
I hear you!! It’s harder than I thought it would be!! I’ll keep trying~!
That’s such a pretty dress :))
love it! and the belt and shoes too.
Merry indeed! I love it.
Yay Marimekko! Also, way to go on your challenge! I’m supposed to not be buying any skirts or dresses this year and have mostly failed miserably. I did pretty well with my no shopping for parts of last year, however. 😀 It is SO TOUGH but a healthy exercise, I think. 😀 So, go you!
Belts are amazing. I haven’t been wearing mine as often lately, I suspect I wear them more during warmer weather.
-Rebecca
Idealism never goes out of fashion
http://mn2nz.wordpress.com
I think so too! I underestimated how hard it would be~!!
Love that dress and the print! I have a similar belt too! 🙂 30 days no shopping challenge must be a tough one and good to hear you have almost completed half of it! Good Luck 🙂
http://littlebookoffashion.wordpress.com
ah, i wondered why i haven’t seen that dress here before (being in the land of Marimekko and all), now i figured it out… there’s no Banana Republic here. :p anyway, i love how you styled it with the belt! Marimekko + beige & black + your blonde hair = you look just like a Finn!
good luck with the challenge (you know you can!). if i were to do it, i think i’d do okay except that i can’t stop shopping for fabrics…
LOL I LOVEEEE Marimekko so much~! I swoon over everything they do! Yes, I’ve cut out fabrics too! But, I can’t wait to get some as soon as I’m done :)!!
I love your belt and the dress of course! 🙂
Beautiful dress ❤
The dress is pretty. Them colors too.
I liked the look with a belt and without. Looking good.
Your dress is beautiful!!! Gorge!
Love the shrug!
Such a pretty dress! Love the split too!
xo, Kenya
Love the print!!
Lindsay xx,
http://www.fatfreefashion.com
love this gorgeous print!!!
You know hun, I love these photos for the stark difference in the feminity of your outfit and the masculine concrete background. Makes you the damsel only not-in-distress but owning it up like a queen! Love this super chic maxi!
That was exactly what I had in mind when G and I took the photos- the masculine background is interesting with the dress, for sure~! G has skills, what can I say!?
Beautiful print dress and you paired it perfectly with your outfit. Love it.
http://blogthebutterfly.wordpress.com/
Oooh, that dress! ❤
You’ve got this girl! You’ll make it because you’re already half way there 🙂
Great maxi dress, can’t believe it’s from BR!?! I love how you’ve styled it with the belt, nice touch.
xo, Jackie
I love maxi dresses and this one is awesome matched with this gorgeous belt , good challenge !
Marimekko is the most joyous statement and your maxi fits both situations perfectly! X
pretty dress!
xx Marina
http://www.fashiontipp.com
I love your maxi dress!
Thanks for the cheers of support, all! I’m going to make it 30 days!!